Storms open Whistler early

Tue 14 November 06

A massive winter storm that has blanketed Whistler resort since Thursday night in 75 centimeters or 30 inches of snow, has precipitated the announcement that the resort will open earlier than expected

A massive winter storm that has blanketed Whistler resort since Thursday night in 75 centimeters or 30 inches of snow, has precipitated the announcement that the resort will open earlier than expected. Whistler Mountain will open for the season this Saturday, November 18 from 8:30am to 3pm. Blackcomb Mountain will open as planned on Thursday, November 23.

“This latest weather system has been a huge boost for our early season conditions, helping to create excellent opening weekend conditions, as well as building a solid base for the rest of the season,” says Doug MacFarlane, Whistler Blackcomb’s mountain operations manager. “We couldn’t be happier with what we can offer our guests this coming weekend.”

Weather forecasters are predicting that this is only the beginning of a period of snowy, stormy weather over the next several days in the resort. Environment Canada’s forecast calls for snow throughout the week. Bestskiweather.com is also reporting an active weather pattern for Whistler well into late November.

Whistler Mountain will open on Saturday with access from the Whistler Village base. The Whistler Village Gondola, the Emerald Express and the Big Red Express are all scheduled to open. The resort’s new fleet of grooming machines will be hard at work this week preparing the slopes for skiers and riders. Guests should be aware that early season conditions will exist off-piste and so extreme caution should be exercised when venturing beyond the ropes.

“There has been huge anticipation in the resort for weeks as opening day has drawn closer,” says Stuart Rempel, Whistler Blackcomb’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “With the unveiling of our brand new Symphony Express high speed quad in the back bowls of Whistler Mountain, this season’s excitement level is through the roof. We’re thrilled that we can open the mountain early for everyone to get up there and get in some turns.” The Symphony Express grand opening is scheduled for December 16.

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Whistler/Blackcomb, Canada
Major riding for all styles and all levels, especially backcountry and amazing park and pipes.But take note: lift queues can be very long, especially at Easter and Christmas. Great summer riding on Blackcomb Glacier.
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